The Big Void at No. 4
The No. 4 slot in India’s Test lineup has always been hallowed ground—first dominated by Sachin Tendulkar, then inherited by Virat Kohli. These two legends have shouldered Indian cricket for over three decades. Now, as Kohli takes a break for personal reasons, the spotlight shifts to a new, potentially long-term occupant.
With the India vs England Test series 2025 on the horizon, the selectors face a critical decision: who replaces Virat Kohli at No. 4?
The Contenders for the Coveted Slot
India has no shortage of batting talent. But when it comes to filling Kohli’s shoes, it’s not just about numbers. It’s about handling pressure, anchoring innings, and commanding the crease like a general.
Let’s look at the leading contenders:
Shubman Gill: Stylish, Smart, and Ready?
Shubman Gill is widely seen as the face of India’s next generation. He’s already made the No. 3 position his own in recent matches, and many believe he’s the natural successor at No. 4.
Why Gill?
- Technically sound and temperamentally composed
- Already part of the Test core
- Comfortable against both pace and spin
- Groomed as a future leader
Challenges: Has been inconsistent at times, and might still be adapting to life in the middle order after starting as an opener.
KL Rahul: Dependable and Versatile
If India opts for experience over potential, KL Rahul could be the go-to choice. With multiple roles under his belt—opener, middle-order bat, and wicketkeeper—Rahul has a well-rounded Test resume.
Strengths:
- Strong record in overseas conditions
- Can handle pressure situations
- Offers flexibility in team balance
Caveat: Inconsistency has haunted his Test career, and he often blows hot and cold.
Sarfaraz Khan: The Stats Machine of Domestic Cricket
Sarfaraz Khan is perhaps the most deserving candidate based on domestic performance alone. With an astonishing average over 70 in first-class cricket, he has knocked on the selectors’ door for several seasons.
Why He Deserves a Shot:
- Massive run scorer in Ranji Trophy
- Plays long innings and loves the grind
- Mentally tough and passionate
Concerns: Yet to debut internationally, and there’s uncertainty around his adaptability to Test match intensity.
Karun Nair: The Forgotten Triple-Centurion
Remember Karun Nair? The man who scored a triple century against England in 2016, only to disappear from the radar. With Kohli out, there might just be a narrow window for Nair’s comeback.
Strengths:
- Proven at the highest level
- Experienced, technically correct player
- Hungry for redemption
Drawbacks: Hasn’t been consistent domestically in recent years, and lacks match practice at the top level.
Team Combination: The Deciding Factor
How India structures its top order will heavily influence who gets the No. 4 role. If KL Rahul opens with Yashasvi Jaiswal, Gill is the obvious pick at 4. But if Gill stays at 3 and Rahul slots in later, that opens up a spot for either Sarfaraz or Nair.
Possible Line-Up Without Kohli:
- Yashasvi Jaiswal
- KL Rahul
- Shubman Gill
- Sarfaraz Khan / Rahul / Nair
- Rishabh Pant / KS Bharat (wk)
- Ravindra Jadeja
- Shreyas Iyer / Hanuma Vihari (if available)
The Bigger Picture: India’s Next Test Generation
Kohli’s temporary exit could be the start of a generational shift. India will need to invest in players who can carry the mantle forward for the next decade. This isn’t just a one-off change it’s potentially a new era.
Expert Take: What’s Most Likely?
- Gill is the frontrunner if Rahul opens.
- Sarfaraz Khan could finally get his big break if the team wants a pure middle-order bat.
- Rahul might slide down to bring in more experience if India is worried about England’s bowling attack.
- Karun Nair remains an outside chance—but don’t count him out.
Final Thoughts: A Defining Series Awaits
Kohli’s shoes are nearly impossible to fill, but Indian cricket thrives on transitions. The upcoming Test series against England will not only test India’s depth but also define the next batting order for years to come.
The only certainty? Whoever bats at No. 4 will walk into the shadows of legends—and have the chance to step into the light.
Saathee Global
